Bernie Sanders: She Called Me Unqualified First

Bernie Sanders‘ accusation that Hillary Clinton isn’t “qualified” to be president sounds a little Larry David-ish when you consider Clinton’s record. It’s debatable what exactly qualifies a person to be President of the United States — except, perhaps, possession of a penis. (It’s the only characteristic shared by all U.S. presidents to date.) But most people, even Hillary haters, agree that positions like Secretary of State and U.S. Senator scan as relevant experience. Governor, peanut farmer, actor, president’s son — these too have been viewed as good presidential preparation by American voters.

Sanders’ passion sometimes gives his oratory an edgy feel, as if it might tip into hysteria. Many listeners thought that’s just what happened when he called Clinton unqualified, especially since one of them will likely be running against Donald Trump. But Sanders has defended his Clinton assessment very simply: he’s fighting fire with fire is all. “They’re going to question my qualifications, well I’m going to question theirs,” Sanders said. When the Washington Post runs a headline saying “Clinton questions whether Sanders is qualified” Sanders says he has no other recourse than to level the playing field. If he’s not qualified, then neither is she. What grade are we in again?

Bernie Sanders‘ accusation that Hillary Clinton isn’t “qualified” to be president sounds a little Larry David-ish when you consider Clinton’s record. It’s debatable what exactly qualifies a person to be President of the United States — except, perhaps, possession of a penis. (It’s the only characteristic shared by all U.S. presidents to date.) But most people, even Hillary haters,...